State of calamity mulled for three San Vicente barangays

San Vicente wants to declare state of calamity in three towns
(Photo credit: https://www.philippinebeaches.org/long-beach-san-vicente-palawan-drone-video/san-vicente-long-beach)

The town of San Vicente is considering to declare a state of calamity in three major fishing villages of the town – Caruray, Port Barton and Poblacion – that have been severely affected by recent heavy rains.

The Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDDRMO) is expected to endorse the declaration to the municipal council on Monday. The measure, if approved by the municipal council, will allow the local government to release emergency funds for assistance.

“The Council will meet to discuss the help to be given to the affected residents,” MDRRM Officer Edwin Oppus told Palawan News by phone.

Around 15,000 residents in the barangays’ inland and island sitios have reportedly been affected by the rains brought by a low pressure area (LPA), which is intensified by the southwest monsoon or “habagat.”

The LPA was last seen 135 kilometer West of Coron town, according to PAGASA’s 4 a.m. advisory Friday.

“They can’t venture into the open sea for two weeks now. Their well-being is quite affected since they heavily rely on fishing for a living,” the MDRRMO chief said.

Once declared under calamity state, the municipal government will be allowed under law to tap its quick response fund, which constitutes 30% of town’s calamity fund.